Big Match Breakdown: Italy v Netherlands

Odds and tips ahead of Turin friendly

Italy and the Netherlands face each other in friendly action tonight, though they’ll both wish it was part of their preparations for the World Cup.

Despite their pedigree, neither side will be taking part in Russia this summer.

Since failing to qualify, they’ve brought in Roberto Mancini and Ronald Koeman respectively to help get them back to where they expect to be.

The two sides will see this as a chance to test themselves against good opposition and continue moving towards a new era.

The Coral News Team have all the pre-match info…

Head to Head

The Netherlands have struggled against the Azzuri historically. They’ve only one three of the 20 matches between the two nations. Italy have won 10.

Of the last five meetings, Italy have won twice, the Dutch once, and there have been two draws.

The most recent meeting was last March, when goals from Eder and Leonardo Bonuscci secure a 2-1 Italian win.

Likely XIs

There’s likely to be experimentation on both sides at the Juventus Stadium.

Mancini has brought Mario Balotelli back into the international fold, though Andrea Belotti could take the lone striker role here. The likes of Daniele Rugani, Lorenzo Insigne and Alessandro Florenzi could also start.

For the Dutch, Memphis Depay is set to continue in his central role up front. Ryan Babel may come into the team alongside him, with Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Ake, Georginio Wijnaldum also returning to the starting XI after Thursday’s 1-1 draw with Slovakia.

Key Battles

Depay put his disappointing spell at Manchester United firmly behind him this season. He scored 22 goals and set up 17 more for Lyon in all competitions.

His movement from central areas to the flanks will pose awkward questions for the Italian defence, who will have to decide whether to track him or let him go.

Insigne has been superb for Napoli over recent years, but he’s been underused by Italy. This could be his chance to prove to Mancini that he deserves to be starting regularly. He’s got the talent to run Italy’s attacking play.

Match Odds

Italy are 13/10 favourites, with the Netherlands at 2/1. The draw is also 2/1.

Both sides can cause real problems going forward. You can get Both Teams to Score at 20/23. Italy and Over 2.5 Goals is also 16/5.

Friendly matches can sometimes fizzle out towards the end, as plenty of changes are made and the game loses its rhythm. It’s 12/5 that the first-half is the highest scoring here.

Mario Balotelli is 7/2 favourite to kick-off the scoring. The former Manchester City forward is also 7/5 to net anytime.

For the visitors, the odds have Depay as the most likely scorer at 11/5.